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The distance between covalent atoms refers to the separation between the centers of the nuclei of two atoms that are covalently bonded. This distance is determined by the covalent radii of the atoms involved and represents the equilibrium bond length where attractive and repulsive forces balance.
The calculator uses the simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: For a homonuclear diatomic molecule (two identical atoms), the bond length is simply twice the covalent radius of the atom.
Details: Calculating the distance between covalently bonded atoms is fundamental in molecular geometry, helps predict molecular properties, and is essential for understanding chemical bonding and reactivity in various compounds.
Tips: Enter the covalent radius in meters. The covalent radius must be a positive value greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is covalent radius?
A: Covalent radius is a measure of the size of an atom that forms part of one covalent bond. It represents half the distance between two identical atoms connected by a covalent bond.
Q2: Does this formula work for heteronuclear bonds?
A: For heteronuclear bonds (different atoms), the bond distance is approximately the sum of the covalent radii of the two atoms, not simply twice one radius.
Q3: What are typical values for covalent radii?
A: Covalent radii typically range from about 30-200 picometers (3.0×10⁻¹¹ to 2.0×10⁻¹⁰ meters), with hydrogen at approximately 31 pm and larger atoms like iodine around 139 pm.
Q4: How accurate is this simple calculation?
A: This calculation provides a good approximation for homonuclear diatomic molecules, but actual bond lengths can vary slightly due to bond order, hybridization, and other electronic effects.
Q5: Can this be used for multiple bonds?
A: For multiple bonds (double, triple), the bond length is shorter than predicted by single-bond covalent radii, so specific multiple-bond radii should be used for accurate calculations.